If you think that leaks can be taken lightly, you’re wrong. Even a simple dripping faucet can prove to be very costly in the end. In fact, leaks can cause a lot of inconvenience to homeowners like you. First of all, when a plumbing fixture continuously leaks, you’ll be wasting a lot of water. This will then make your water bill skyrocket which means that you’ll be spending more money on water that you’re not actually using. Aside from utility expenses, leaks are also among the top causes of property damages. If you don’t tend to it immediately, your home’s floors and walls may eventually get damaged. This will, again, lead to unwanted repair expenses. With this being said, you’ll have to find the plumbing leak and fix it right away. Here are some tips to help you.
Helpful Leak Detection & Repair Tips
- The first sign of a leak is an increase in your water bill. If you’re using the same amount of water every day and your bill rises up like crazy, it is possible that there’s a leaking faucet, shower, toilet, tub or pipe somewhere in your home.
- If you have a water heater, go check it out. This wonderful appliance is also prone to leaking as the years go by. The older it gets, the faster its parts deteriorate. Inspect its T&P valve and make sure it’s not dripping. If you hear any hissing sound coming from the water heater tank, water may actually be leaking from it.
- Aside from your heating unit, you should also check your toilets. If your bathroom floor is constantly wet even if no one’s using it, it’s possible that the toilet has a seepage. Check its base and if it’s leaking from there, you’ll have to fix the flange. A running toilet is also another problem. Pour a few tablespoons of dye into the tank and if the water in the bowl turns into the same color as the dye without flushing, that means that the toilet tank is leaking as well.
- Another way to confirm the presence of leaks is by turning off the main water supply valve. Once it is off, water will no longer pass through the pipes. Check your water meter and if you notice that it still turns, a leak is present.
- Inspect hose-bibs, too. They are also prone to seepage especially when they are already worn out.
- Of course, do not forget to check your taps, showerheads, water pipes, drainpipes and other components of your plumbing system.
- Check wooden walls that have interior pipes. If they are wet, the tubing inside may be leaking.
If you have a leak problem and are in need of expert plumbing help, just call your trusted plumber. Douglas Orr Plumbing delivers exceptional plumbing services throughout Miami! Call us at (305) 240-6731 to schedule a service!
Learn how to prevent household plumbing leaks! Watch this video from This Old House.